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How does multiple pregnancy occur?
A twin, triplet, or higher-order pregnancy (four or more babies) is called multiple pregnancy. If more than one egg is released during the menstrual cycle and each is fertilized by a sperm, more than one embryo may implant and grow in your uterus. This type of pregnancy results in fraternal twins (or more). When a single fertilized egg splits, it results in multiple identical embryos. This type of pregnancy results in identical twins (or more). Identical twins are less common than fraternal twins.

What is preterm labor?
Preterm labor is defined as regular contractions of the uterus resulting in changes in the cervix that start before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Changes in the cervix include effacement (the cervix thins out) and dilation (the cervix opens so that the fetus can enter the birth canal).

When is a baby considered “preterm” or “extremely preterm?”
A normal pregnancy with one baby lasts about 40 weeks. Babies born before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy are called “preterm” or “premature.” Babies born before 28 completed weeks of pregnancy are considered extremely preterm. The earlier a baby is born, the less likely he or she is to survive. Those who do survive often have serious, sometimes long-term health problems and disabilities.

Although most babies are born healthy, parents-to-be often worry about the
possibility that their baby will be born with a medical condition or physical
disability. A birth defect is a physical problem or intellectual disability that is
present at birth, although some birth defects may not be noticed until the
child is older. About 3 in 100 babies in the United States are born with a major
birth defect

How long should I breastfeed my baby?
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of a baby’s life. Breastfeeding should continue up to the baby’s first birthday as new foods are introduced. You can keep breastfeeding after the baby’s first birthday for as long as you and your baby would like.

PFSI011
Mosquito Bite Prevention
If you must travel to one of the areas where Zika virus is spreading,
strictly follow these four steps to prevent mosquito bites:
 Use EPA-registered bug spray with DEET, picaridin, IR3535,
oil of lemon eucalyptus, paramenthane-diol, or 2-undecanone.
Used as directed, these sprays are safe for pregnant and
breastfeeding women.
 Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
 Treat clothing and gear with permethrin or buy
permethrin-treated items.
 Stay in air-conditioned or screened-in areas during the day
and at night.
Follow these steps at all ...

What is group B streptococcus (GBS)?
Group B streptococcus is one of the many types of bacteria that live in the body and usually do not cause serious illness. It is found in the digestive, urinary, and reproductive tracts of men and women. In women, it can be found in the vagina and rectum. GBS is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Also, although the names are similar, GBS is different from group A streptococcus, the bacteria that causes “strep throat.”

Why is it important to wear a seat belt when I travel during pregnancy?
Although the baby is protected inside your body, you should wear a lap and shoulder belt every time you travel while you are pregnant for the best protection—even in the final weeks of pregnancy. You and your baby are much more likely to survive a car crash if you are buckled in.